13 Secret Spots In New York Where Nature Will Completely Relax You
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Lea Monroe
Author
Between the power of the internet and how quickly word of mouth can travel via social networks, it’s hard to keep some of our favorite spots and natural wonders a secret nowadays. But considering the size of New York and the handful of regions that make up the state, it’s still possible to discover lesser known locations that you’ve yet to take the time to explore. Providing you with stones that are still in need of turning, this list will keep you busy for the foreseeable future.
Head up north to one of the most beautiful areas of the Adirondacks to explore a gorgeous trail system that will take you out into nature. Accessible from the town of Wilmington, Flume Falls can be found right along the West Branch of the Ausable River. Dropping down roughly 60 feet, these sizable falls are incredible to see for yourself in person.
Lea Monroe/Only In Your State
Just outside of Saratoga in the small town of Gansevoort is a great alternative to those who are looking to avoid the crowds that our more popular destinations like Saratoga Spa State Park. The secluded park is hiding in plain sight and features various trails within the 2,400 acre space that this place makes up. Full of protected wetlands and wildlife, you'll love to visit here if you're interested in escaping within a beautiful forest.
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In each region of New York you can discover breathtaking gardens that are amazing for an afternoon stroll. Within the town of Millbrook, Innisfree Garden was inspired by Chinese and Japanese landscapes and has created a unique outdoor space to visit. Requiring a small admission fee that's more than worth the price of the memories you'll walk away with after coming here, the public garden will relax you instantly.
Another small town gem to make the list, Scoby Dam Park is tucked away along Cattaraugus Creek in Western New York. Part of the town of Springville, the longtime favorite park has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1996. If you're wondering what the main attraction of this park is besides waterfront picnic spots and hiking trails, you'll be excited to hear that within the park there's a scenic dam that you can get a great view of.
Giving you a view of Vermont from out along the waters of Lake Champlain, this stunning state park brings you all the way up to the city of Plattsburgh. If you've never explored this region of our state, this park provides a great place to start! Inside of the park you can explore a variety of hiking trails that will take you deep into the forest and out along the shorelines of the water. Bonus? There's even a sandy beach you can check out!
Up in the town of Henderson along Lake Ontario's most northern points, Robert G. Wehle State Park gives you a view of some of New York's most gorgeous water. Clear and vibrant with color, the park covers just over 1,000 acres and is one of the most beautiful places you can go camping up in this area of our state!
Not far from the western shores of Skaneateles Lake in the town of Moravia, the Bahar Preserve is a small but magnificent outdoor space that many of our residents have yet to discover. Home to the roughly 90-foot tall Carpenter Falls, most who come to explore this parking are looking to end up at this hidden waterfall.
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If you're looking for an adventure that won't consume a crazy amount of time, the Ferncliff Forest is a great half-day exploring trip to take. Hike along a 2-mile long loop trail and before you know it you'll find yourself at the base of a fire tower that will give you amazing views of the Hudson Valley from above.
Giving you a front row seat to Owasco Lake, Emerson Park in Auburn is a beautiful family-friendly spot that's worth discovering if you find yourself in the area. Whether you wan't to enjoy a relaxing day by the water fishing or desire to plan a picnic with friends and family under the shade, there's something for everyone to enjoy outdoors here.
One of the highest waterfalls hiding away within the Adirondacks, OK Slip Falls is roughly 250-feet tall. A natural wonder that will require some hiking to get to, the trail to the waterfall is 6-miles long round trip and will take you away from it all.
Want to explore a more secluded outdoor space that's still within the city of Buffalo? Then check out everything the Tifft Nature Preserve has to offer. Covering over 260 acres, the park is an amazing outdoor space to visit if you want to stretch your legs in a beautiful setting without completing straining yourself for the day. Full of fascinating history and wildlife, it's not hard to see why people fall in love with this park!
Boardwalks through the forest that eventually lead you to a beautiful sandy beach? Sign me up yesterday! Part of Fire Island's National Seashore, this outdoor space is one of the more unique places that you can go hiking within New York State.
A popular place to visit during the summer and to go camping with friends and family, Lake Taghkanic State Park can be found right in the middle between the eastern shores of the Hudson River and the Massachusetts state border. Right next to Lake Taghkanic, the waterfront park features beaches, boat launches, cabins and secluded swimming destinations that you won't want to share with anyone else.
Do any of these beautiful spots fall within your nearby area? To discover more hidden gems around our state, check out how Spending The Night At This Magical Castle In New York Will Give You An Unforgettable Stay!
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